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Summer heat poses danger to outdoor workers

Larimer County advises staying well-hydrated and applying sunscreen when working outside

By James Garcia

Reporter-Herald Staff Writer

Posted:
07/22/2014 09:19:27 PM MDT

Kyler Konieczny with All Terrain Ponds, Sprinklers and Landscaping uses a riding lawn mower to cut grass Tuesday for a homeowner's association in east Loveland. Konieczny said that applying sunscreen and staying well-hydrated are important things to do when working outside during the summertime heat. (Steve Stoner / Loveland Reporter-Herald)

With temperatures reaching into the high 90s this week, Larimer County issued a warning to those who work outdoors or employ people who work outdoors with a list of measures to prevent heat-related health hazards.

"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that people who work outdoors are more likely to become dehydrated and are more likely to get heat-related illness," the press release said.

The county recommends drinking two to four cups of water each hour while engaged in activity on a hot day.

"Just make sure you stay hydrated, that's the main thing. Don't wait until you're thirsty; you're almost too late at that point," said Henry Buss of Carnes Services, who worked traffic control Tuesday while his crew worked on Garfield Avenue's asphalt, curbs and gutters.

Buss was able to duck under the shade of a nearby tree while watching for traffic. But he was never too far away from his tools, which included a bottle of Gatorade.

"I've been doing this 10 years. I stay well-equipped," he said.

The release warns that one should avoid drinking too much water as well, saying not to consume more than 48 cups in a 24-hour period. Too much water can negatively affect the body's sodium and electrolyte levels and can cause water intoxication or dilutional hyponatremia.

"We have a really good safety culture here at the city (of Loveland)," said Troy Griebe, supervisor of Loveland Burial Park. "We have annual safety training at the beginning of the season."

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He said the training sessions cover many aspects of safety, including environmental safety, providing employees with tips on reducing health risks in adverse weather. Buss said his company also puts its employees through safety training on the subject.

"It's all about awareness ... It seems to help a lot," Griebe said. "There's water and ice available to our employees. I'd say all our bases, as far as being prepared, are covered."

He said he hasn't witnessed any serious problems with employee dehydration or heat stroke, despite what he described what can sometimes be "grueling work" trimming the grass around 15,000 headstones.

"It gets pretty brutal. Definitely the days I'm here is the most sun I get," said parks and ground maintenance worker Kinsey Clay, but said they are encouraged to take more frequent breaks on hot days to hydrate and cool down.

"If an ambulance has to come out, that's an added expense for the taxpayers. So not only is it important for the workers' health, but it's a good business decision," Griebe said.

He also said he allows his crews to come to work mornings when it's cooler and leave earlier in the day, when the heat is beginning to intensify. He said everyone is usually done and out of the heat by 3:30 p.m.

Of the heat-related illnesses, heat stroke is the most serious condition, according to the press release. Symptoms can include confusion, irrational behavior, loss of consciousness, convulsions, lack of sweat, hot or dry sky and an abnormally high body temperature.

It is recommended you seek immediate medical attention if you experience any combination of these symptoms while working in hot conditions. Heat exhaustion or heat cramps are other risks, which can be treated by taking a break in a cool area and sipping on water or sports beverages.

Chris Knoetgen, the National Weather Service's official co-op observer for Loveland said the temperature this month has not been abnormal.

"For July so far, we have hit the 90s eleven times, the highest was 98 degrees yesterday and also on the seventh. We are currently about 0.3 degrees above normal for July, so overall, a pretty normal month temp wise," he said.

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